Monaco’s Permanent Representation to the Council of Europe hosted a distinguished reception on 8th July at the prestigious Salon Bleu in Strasbourg, marking two decades since the accession of Prince Albert II. The celebration not only honoured a landmark anniversary but also served as a prelude to a historic new chapter: Monaco’s first‑ever presidency of the Council of Europe’s Committee of Ministers in 2026.

Ambassador Gabriel Revel welcomed nearly 200 guests, including the Deputy Secretary General of the Council of Europe, the President of the European Court of Human Rights, numerous ambassadors, Strasbourg dignitaries and members of the CEDH. In his address, he reflected on Monaco’s deepening ties with the Council, which celebrated its 20th year of membership on 2nd October 2024. He also thanked international delegations for their continued support ahead of Monaco’s pivotal leadership role within the institution.

Prince Albert II to return to strasbourg in 2026

It was revealed during the evening that Prince Albert II will return to Strasbourg next year to deliver a speech to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE). This symbolic gesture will coincide with Monaco’s presidency, scheduled from mid-May to mid-November 2026. During its tenure, the Principality will champion a set of defined priorities, including combatting violence against women, advocating for children’s rights, supporting sports as a vehicle for unity, and reinforcing the execution of the Court’s rulings. A cultural programme will run in parallel, uniting Monégasque and Strasbourg-based institutions in a shared creative dialogue.

preparations underway for monaco’s historic presidency

Momentum for Monaco’s upcoming leadership is already building. A dedicated steering committee has begun preparations, including the voluntary allocation of €500,000 to reinforce Council of Europe initiatives. Monaco has also opened bilateral dialogues with Moldova and Montenegro—the countries it will respectively follow and precede in the rotating presidency—to ensure policy continuity and a coherent European agenda.

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Photo source: Government Department of Communication